The phrase "calls time" is spelled exactly as it sounds. The first word, "calls," is pronounced as /kɔːlz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, which denotes the vowel sound /ɔː/ at the beginning and the consonant sound /z/ at the end. Meanwhile, the second word, "time," is pronounced as /taɪm/ in IPA phonetic transcription, indicating the diphthong /aɪ/ followed by the consonant sound /m/ at the end. Thus, when combined, "calls time" can be pronounced as /kɔːlz taɪm/.
To "call time" is an idiomatic expression that primarily originates from the sport of boxing. The phrase refers to the act of abruptly halting or bringing an end to a match or round by a referee or official. When a referee "calls time," it signifies the conclusion of a specific period of play or an interruption in the action to handle an issue that has arisen.
However, beyond its sporting context, the phrase "calls time" has also adopted a figurative meaning. In this sense, it refers to the act of drawing an end to a particular situation, event, or activity. It implies that someone in authority or with decision-making power has decided that it is time for something to cease or conclude.
As a metaphorical expression, "calls time" is often employed to describe a definitive action taken to stop or terminate an ongoing process, event, or phase. This can involve ending a project, disbanding a team, ceasing operations, or concluding a significant event. It suggests a finality to the situation, indicating that there will be no further continuation or progression.
Overall, whether used in a sporting setting or a broader context, "calls time" encompasses the idea of ending or interrupting an ongoing activity, often indicating a decisive action by an authority figure to bring an event or period to its conclusion.
The phrase "calls time" is a colloquialism that is mainly used in British English, particularly in the context of sports. It originates from the world of boxing, where the referee "calls time" to signal the end of a round or the end of a match. The phrase has extended beyond boxing, and it is now commonly used to indicate the end of any activity or event. The etymology of the phrase is straightforward, as it directly refers to the act of the referee calling "time" to mark the conclusion of a specific period.